Why Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Brno

The cathedral is famous for its unique bell-ringing tradition. Every day, the bells ring for noon at 11:00 AM. This commemorates a clever trick during the Thirty Years' War. Legend says the Swedish general promised to leave if he did not win by noon. The locals rang the bells early to save the city.

Inside, you will find a blend of styles. The main structure is Gothic, but the interior features Baroque elements. The altars are ornate and tell stories of faith. You can also visit the Romanesque-Gothic crypt. It offers a quiet space for reflection beneath the nave.

Climbing the towers is a highlight for many visitors. The stairs are steep but the reward is great. You get a 360-degree view of the city and the surrounding countryside. It is the best place to orient yourself before exploring further. Here are some quick picks for your visit:

• Best for views: The Cathedral Towers
• Best for history: Špilberk Castle
• Best for families: VIDA! Science Centre
• Best free sight: Denis Gardens

12 Best Things to Do Near Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Brno

Brno is a city that rewards those who explore its streets. From underground ossuaries to modernist villas, there is something for everyone. Most of these sites are within walking distance of the cathedral. Use this list to find the best experiences for your trip.

1. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: It is the city's primary landmark with incredible towers. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Petrov Hill, City Center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the church; small fee for towers and crypt. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: Visit the cathedral of St. Peter and Paul official site for current mass times.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: This fortress once served as a notorious prison. Best for: History lovers and families. Where: On the hill opposite Petrov. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for museums and casemates. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova street. Tip: Check our Spilberk Castle visiting guide for tour details.
3. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Experience Why go: A UNESCO-listed masterpiece of modern architecture. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Higher price; must book months in advance. Getting there: Take Tram 9 from the center. Tip: Look at Villa Tugendhat tickets and tours early to secure a spot.
4. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Unique experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Best for: Those interested in the macabre. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Affordable entry fee. Getting there: Walk to Rašínova street from the main square. Tip: Read about the Brno ossuary at St James Church before you go.
5. Name: Old Town Hall Type: Experience Why go: See the famous "Brno Dragon" and climb the tower. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Radnická street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low fee for the tower. Getting there: 3-minute walk from the Vegetable Market. Tip: Learn the legend of the Old Town Hall and Brno dragon at the entrance.
6. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Museum Why go: Explore a former nuclear fallout shelter from the Cold War. Best for: Modern history fans. Where: Under Špilberk Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is on Husova street. Tip: The bunker also functions as a unique hostel and bar.
7. Name: Labyrinth under Vegetable Market Type: Experience Why go: Walk through medieval cellars used for food storage. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Directly in the center of the market square. Tip: Wear a light jacket as the underground air is chilly.
8. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Sight Why go: View the naturally mummified remains of monks and nobles. Best for: History and anthropology fans. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Located just below Petrov Hill. Tip: Respect the solemn atmosphere as it is a burial site.
9. Name: Moravian Karst Type: Day trip Why go: Incredible cave systems and the Macocha Abyss. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: North of Brno. Time: Full day. Cost: Varies; includes bus and cave entry. Getting there: Take a train to Blansko, then a bus. Tip: See our guide on visiting Moravian Karst from Brno for logistics.
10. Name: VIDA! Science Centre Type: Museum Why go: Interactive exhibits that make science fun for all ages. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near the Brno Exhibition Centre. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take Tram 1 from the main station. Tip: Plan to stay for the science shows held throughout the day.
11. Name: Brno Reservoir and Veveří Castle Type: Day trip Why go: Enjoy a boat ride and visit a romantic medieval castle. Best for: Couples and outdoor fans. Where: Northwest edge of the city. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Boat tickets and castle entry are separate. Getting there: Tram 1 to Přístaviště, then take the ferry. Tip: The ferry operates from spring to autumn only.
12. Name: Denis Gardens Type: Viewpoint Why go: Relax in a beautiful park with views of the cathedral. Best for: A peaceful break. Where: Right next to Petrov Hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from any central location. Tip: It is one of the most romantic spots for a sunset walk.

Practical Tips for Your Brno Adventure

Brno is a very walkable city, especially in the historic center. Most attractions around the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Brno are close together. You can easily navigate on foot between Petrov Hill and the main squares. For longer distances, use the excellent tram network.

You should check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site for tickets. You can pay with a contactless card directly on the tram. This makes getting around very simple for international visitors. Most locals speak some English, especially in shops and restaurants.

If you want more local insights, visit the Go To Brno portal. It provides updates on festivals and seasonal events. Many museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your week carefully. Always carry a small amount of Czech Koruna for smaller cafes.